Semi Ajayi Scores First Goal of the Season as Hull City Seal Dramatic Win Over Stoke

Nigeria international Semi Ajayi recorded his first goal of the season as Hull City came from behind to defeat Stoke City 2–1 in a spirited Sky Bet Championship clash on Saturday.

Stoke, who sit second on the table, struck first in the 17th minute through Sorba Thomas, putting the pressure on the Tigers early in the encounter.

But Hull City responded with purpose and intensity, and just three minutes after the restart, Ajayi rose highest to head home the equaliser — a powerful finish that underlined his aerial threat and defensive intelligence.
The centre-back delivered a commanding performance and completed the full 90 minutes, marking his eighth league appearance of the campaign.

With the match appearing to drift toward a draw, Joe Gelhardt stepped up to net a dramatic 90th-minute winner, sealing all three points for the Tigers in emphatic fashion.

OPINION: Ajayi’s Goal Is More Than Just a Header — It Signals His Rising Influence at Hull

Semi Ajayi has always been known for his strength, composure, and presence at the back, but moments like this show why he remains one of the Championship’s most underrated assets.

His equaliser didn’t just shift the momentum — it injected belief into a Hull City side fighting to stay competitive in a tightly contested league. What makes Ajayi stand out is not just his defensive reliability, but his knack for delivering when the team needs it most.

This goal will boost his confidence, but more importantly, it highlights his growing influence in the squad. Hull’s defensive structure looked more assured with him on the pitch, and his leadership qualities shone through in the high-pressure moments.

For Hull City, this comeback win sends a message:
They may not always start strong, but they have the grit to finish even stronger.
And for Ajayi, it could be the beginning of a standout season.